Spider-Man Caught in a 'Web' of Troubles

Broadway's most expensive and accident-prone musical canceled its evening performance while producers scramble to address the safety concerns that have been plaguing the musical.

The latest cancellation means that "Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark'' remains dark after Monday evening's 30-foot plunge of a Spider-Man stunt double into a stage pit as speculation about its fate grows.

"Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the New York State Department of Labor have agreed on the implementation of additional protocols which will be rehearsed today and this evening," according to show spokesman Rick Miramontez. "As such, tonight's performance has been canceled. Performances will resume tomorrow evening (Thursday).”

State investigators aren't sure whether the equipment, the rigging or the performer caused the fourth accident in the troubled show.

Actors' Equity Association called it human error, but state Department of Labor spokesman Leo Rosales says the cause is under investigation.

Meantime, Christopher Tierney, the show’s main aerialist, was undergoing back surgery today for injuries suffered during Monday’s fall, which occurred just before the end of the show.

If the measures are inadequate, he says, the state will not let the show perform the complicated aerial maneuvers.

The musical could be put in jeopardy if certain aerial actions aren't allowed; it would lose some of its razzle-dazzle.